SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR)
is offering an Armed Forces Special Pass to military members who live
in Illinois and who have served abroad, including guard or reserve
members called to active duty. The special pass provides camping,
fishing and hunting fee exemptions for qualified military members,
guard and reserve members who can apply within two years of their
return from abroad or release from mobilization.

Governor
Rod R. Blagojevich signed legislation authorizing the IDNR to provide
the fee exemptions, acknowledging the contributions of Illinois residents
who are returning from service abroad or who were mobilized by the
President as an active duty member of the United States Armed Forces,
the Illinois National Guard, or the Reserves of the United States
Armed Forces.

The Armed
Forces Special Pass provides qualifying military members, and guard
and reserve members who were mobilized, to camp at IDNR campgrounds
(camper responsible for utility, rent-a-tent and cabin fees) free
of charge. The pass also offers a combined Sportsman’s License
and Habitat Stamp for hunting and fishing, and an archery or firearm
deer permit if requested and available.

Military
members are eligible for free sport fishing, hunting and camping for
one year for each year (and portion of one year) served.

To receive
an Armed Forces Special Pass from the IDNR, qualifying military members
must appear in person at the Illinois Department of Natural Resources
headquarters, One Natural Resources Way, Springfield, within two years
of their return from abroad or release from mobilization, provide
verification of dates of service, and provide a photo ID.